Can foreigners buy property in the United States in 2026?

You will work with a real estate agent who lists or shows homes, often through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) used by licensed brokers. Title companies or closing attorneys handle escrow, title insurance, and the deed. Expect to show passport identification, prove funds for the purchase and closing costs, and obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS if you lack a Social Security number (SSN) and need one for tax reporting.

Cash purchases are common for newcomers because mortgage underwriting is harder without US credit and residence history. Financing is a separate question covered on the foreigner-mortgage page. Closing costs in US dollars ($) typically include title insurance, escrow fees, recording fees, and prepaid taxes or insurance. Exact stacks vary by state and county.

Buying the property does not create immigration status. A deed in your name does not replace a work visa, student status, or permanent residence process through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

When a foreign person disposes of a US real property interest, the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) generally requires the buyer (or other withholding agent) to withhold a percentage of the amount realized, commonly 15% under current Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules, subject to exceptions and reduced-withholding certificates. FIRPTA is about tax collection on the sale, not a ban on owning the home while you live in it. Plan for FIRPTA with a US tax professional before you list a future sale, and keep records from the purchase year.

Annual property tax, HOA dues, insurance, and possible state or local transfer taxes also apply to foreign owners the same way they apply to citizens once you hold title. Budget those carrying costs in dollars before you chase a bargain list price.